The Tasman Map Mitchell Library, Sydney

The map on the vestibule floor of the Mitchell Library in Sydney is one of Melocco Brothers’ most significant mosaic works. It reproduces a decorated 17^th Century hand-drawn map, which illustrates the discoveries of Abel Janszoon Tasman between 1642-43 and 1644. The map is bordered by a continuous strip of red and yellow marble tesserae (small pieces of marble used in traditional mosaics) which is, in turn, surrounded by a pattern of waved green terrazzo lines on a background of green-flecked cream terrazzo. Set into both map and background are a number of intricate coats of arms, a pair of 17^th Century ships and a cherub at each corner. At the head of the map is an elaborately detailed title and, between the columns that divide the vestibule and the corridor, mosaic panels are decorated with compass symbols.

All the areas of design surrounding the map were created in terrazzo poured between brass divider strips, which acted as stencils and added definition. This work – particularly the brass detail of the two ships – was probably the most complex and intricate brasswork completed by Melocco Brothers.

For more information on the history & tecniques used to create this masterpiece, see the article written by Peter O. Melocco "Mosaic of Tasman Map, 1644"